Case Study: Dallas Horseshoe Project – Design-Bid-Build Delivery Limitations (2016)
Project Overview
• Name: Dallas Horseshoe Project
• Location: Dallas, Texas
• Year: 2016
• Project Size: $798 million
• Scope: Reconstruction and expansion of interchange connecting three major highways using Design-Bid-Build
• Lead Agencies/Contractors: Texas DOT, Multiple Contractors
Category of the Issue, Problem, or Challenge
• Project Delivery Method
• Design-Bid-Build
Summary of the Issue, Problem, or Challenge
Sequential delivery resulted in late identification of design conflicts and constructability issues, causing significant change orders and rework during construction. The strict separation of design and construction phases delayed resolution of problems.
Root Cause Analysis
- Lack of constructability review during design.
- Communication gaps between designers and contractors.
- Inflexibility of Design-Bid-Build process to accommodate design modifications.
- Late discovery of utility conflicts and soil stabilization needs.
Impacts Due to the Issue, Problem, or Challenge
• Construction delays totaling 7 months.
• Cost increases of over $25 million.
• Reduced efficiency and contractor morale.
Corrective Actions Taken
- Adopted constructability reviews for future projects.
- Implemented early contractor involvement in design phase.
- Improved interdisciplinary coordination and communication protocols.
- Considered alternative delivery methods on complex projects.
Lessons Learned
- Design-Bid-Build limits early contractor input, increasing risk.
- Constructability reviews are vital to prevent rework.
- Early communication between design and construction teams improves outcomes.
- Delivery method choice should reflect project complexity and risk profile.
Audit & Prevention: Project Control Questions to Ask on Future Projects to Help Control the Situation
- Are constructability reviews mandated during design?
- Is contractor input integrated early?
- Are communication protocols bridging design and construction?
- Has the delivery method been evaluated for suitability?